Super Mario Maker 2 is a level-creation and platform game released for the Nintendo Switch on June 28, 2019. Built around the same creative premise as its predecessor, it uses a side-scrolling format in which players assemble stages from platforming components to create custom challenges and share them online. The game is a sequel to the original Super Mario Maker, which appeared on the Nintendo 3DS and Wii U. The sequel was announced on February 13, 2019 and shipped with a larger set of parts and modes.

Core features and editor

At its heart Super Mario Maker 2 provides an in-game editor where users place terrain, enemies, power-ups and interactive objects to design courses. The interface supports drag-and-drop editing, undo/redo, and snapping placement. A variety of visual and mechanical course styles let creators use assets inspired by different entries in the Mario franchise, and a new style based on Super Mario 3D World adds distinctive items and enemies. New building tools expand what level authors can do compared with the original game, including angled slopes, tag switches, layered terrain options and a wider set of moving platforms and hazards.

Modes and multiplayer

The game includes several ways to play and distribute courses. A single-player Story Mode supplies a substantial collection of pre-built stages intended to teach design concepts and provide instant play. Course World is the online hub where authors upload, browse and rate community creations. Play modes support both solo runs and competitive or cooperative multiplayer: players can race or team up locally and via online networks to tackle courses together.

Notable additions and distinctions

  • New assets and mechanics: the sequel introduced parts and behaviors not present in the original, broadening design possibilities.
  • Super Mario 3D World style: offers a fresh aesthetic and new power-ups that alter movement and level interaction.
  • Enhanced sharing and discovery: improved browsing for popular, new and recommended courses makes the community content easier to find.
  • Tools for creators: editors and presets streamline the creation process while still allowing complex, handcrafted designs.

Beyond its tools, the game became a platform for player creativity: educators, hobbyists and speedrunners have used it to craft puzzles, precision tests and reinterpretations of classic platforming challenges. The open sharing model turned the title into a living archive of community design styles and trends.

Reception praised the creative freedom and the expanded parts list; some critics noted that managing online moderation and keeping discovery fresh can be challenging for large user bases. Commercially, Super Mario Maker 2 sold 3.93 million copies as of September 30, 2019, reflecting strong initial demand from both creators and players.

For further reading and resources on platforms, development notes and community guides, see references that explain platform features in more detail: platform, genre, game type, original handheld, original console, predecessor, franchise context and 3D World style notes.